MCLD September Call Highlights

Oct 2, 2024

Lecture Notes: MCLD September Monthly Call

Overview

  • September is a busy month for international meetings.
  • Discussion on the UN General Assembly and the Summit of the Future in New York.
  • Updates on making international convenings more inclusive and accessible.
  • Focus on accountability after international events and commitments.

Introduction to MCLD

  • Movement for Community-Led Development (MCLD): A network promoting community voice in development.
  • Launched in 2015 alongside the Sustainable Development Goals.
  • Over 2,000 local organizations and 30 INGOs involved, active in 17 countries.
  • Five key goals:
    1. Voice and agency for marginalized groups
    2. Adequate community finance
    3. Good local governance
    4. Quality public services
    5. Resilience

Theory of Change

  • Focus on shifting power to local institutions.
  • Partnerships for advocacy and facilitation.
  • Collective impact model to achieve SDGs.

Updates from Gunjan Beda

  • Global Secretary of MCLD updates on strategic planning and recent engagements.
  • Emphasis on accountability and reflection of MCLD member values.
  • Strategic planning session to include all MCLD members, not just national associations.
  • UN General Assembly experiences:
    • High youth participation
    • Discussions on changing international financial systems
    • Addressing systemic colonialism

UN General Assembly & Summit of the Future

  • Theme: Transformation of the UN, more democratic and effective governance.
  • Over 500 related meetings, focus on digital future, equality, and cultural diversity.
  • Outcome document: Pact for the Future.
  • Local 2030 Coalition: Focus on local government involvement in achieving SDGs.
  • Event organized by MCLD at the Ford Foundation on funder accountability.

Key Events and Observations

  • Local 2030 Coalition: Focus on local government for achieving SDGs.
  • UnlockAid Event: Highlighted youth energy and social entrepreneurship.
  • WINGS Event: Shift in foundation discussions toward investing in local ecosystems.

MCLD Event at UNGA

  • Panel Discussion: Local actors discussing the guidance document and inclusive practices.
  • Commitment and action from funders like Hilton and Ford Foundations.

Guidance Document on International Convenings

  • Collaborative effort by MCLD, Civicus, and Peace Direct.
  • Principles for inclusion:
    • Local representation at events
    • Access and respect in participation
    • Language inclusivity
    • Joint agenda setting
  • Signed by over 1,800 local actors, 30 INGOs, and 8 funders.

Breakout Discussions on Accountability

  • Focus on defining and tracking accountability measures for commitments.
  • Importance of transparency and ongoing tracking mechanisms.
  • Suggestions for mechanisms to ensure local community involvement in funding decisions.

Upcoming Events

  • October 8th: Discussion at USAID’s Capacity Strengthening Forum.
  • October 16th: Leadership Development Call on terminology.
  • Next global call in late October.

These notes summarize the key points from the MCLD September Monthly Call, focusing on international convenings, accountability, and strategic planning. MCLD’s efforts emphasize community-led initiatives and global collaboration.